Ersan Ilyasova started the first nine games of the season before Bucks coach Scott Skiles decided to make a switch at power forward.

Rookie Jon Leuer went in the starting lineup against Detroit on Jan. 12 and Ilyasova came off the bench.

Ilyasova, in his fourth NBA season and second stint with the Bucks, appears to be that rare breed of player who excels in a reserve role. Since going to the bench, he has averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 rebounds while playing 20 minutes a game (in the last six games).

And the 6-foot-10 Ilyasova was at his best Sunday night in Miami, when he delivered 16 points and six rebounds in the Bucks' 91-82 victory over the Heat.